Maven duo to produce ‘Rollin’ Thunder’

Comedy set in the world of Atlanta hip-hop scene

Maven Pictures’ Trudie Styler and Celine Ratray have come on board “Rollin’ Thunder,” a comedy set in the world of the Atlanta hip-hop scene, with Federal Films’ David Schulhof and Monte Lipman also producing.

Screenplay has been penned by Kenny Smith, Jr., co-executive producer, writer, and director of the BET series “The Game.” Lipman is also president and CEO of Universal Republic Records, which will handle the soundtrack.

“Thunder” centers on a former bowling champ turned ex-con who sees in a city-wide bowling tournament the chance to get back in the game, prove his innocence to the tycoon who owns Atlanta’s biggest bowling alley, and mend bridges with his estranged teenaged daughter.

“This film paints a unique picture of a world that hasn’t been portrayed onscreen,” said Styler and Rattray. “Between Kenny’s sharp writing and the opportunity to work on a music-driven project based in the world of hip-hop, it’s something new and exciting for us here at Maven.”

Smith’s credits include “The Jamie Foxx Show” and “Pair of Kings.”

Maven’s first feature, Kirsten Wiig comedy “Imogene,” premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival and sold to Lionsgate/Roadside. The banner is in post-production on “Filth,” starring James McAvoy, Jim Broadbent, Jamie Bell, and Imogen Poots.

Schulhof, currently managing director of G2 Investment Group, and was formerly VP of Miramax and Dimension Films with executive music supervisor credits on “Chocolat,” “The Cider House Rules” and “Life Is Beatiful.” Universal Republic Records handled soundtracks for “Ted” and “The Hunger Games.”